It’s been 6 months since I finished my World Race.
Three days ago, I returned from a missions school in Africa and outreach in Asia. I don’t have a paying job. I have a vision and desire to help veterans, but the map, methods, and principles have changed. I’m searching and have questions, but I’m secure in Christ. My values are being tested and validated by God, but I know God is up to something and I trust Him. It’s all a great mystery. But as far as I know, certainty is not a virtue in God’s kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy. Faith is.
It’s no secret that the World Race for 2016’s April Expedition was challenging. Adventures in Mission’s Expedition is innovating in the arena of spiritual growth, empowering 20-somethings to grow, fail, and go in relationship with God. Expedition increases the need to depend of God and be led by the Holy Spirit, and some people are not ready to be with no contacts, no language, no accommodations, just God. Instead of going to church, expedition is a challenge to be the church on the go – not allowing walls, locations, or conditions to be limitations.
We were a mess. People quit. Coaches told people to leave because they continued to compromise the values and environment of the squad. We experienced a fierce division over theological differences between conservative evangelicals and charismatics. At one point, we had a local worker claim that a racer said something like, “I was expecting more orphans… this is not going to make good photos for my fundraising.” That became a firestorm…
Yet, I’m more grateful that ever for the World Race. The fellowship and joy I have with the Father and Christ Jesus in the Holy Spirit is more powerful and real than ever. And the people on my squad continue to influence my life in profound ways. The church we built was real, and despite all the trials, I would not change a thing.
A Long Obedience in the Same Direction
Seth Barnes, CEO and founder, wrote in a blog,
“Most racers don’t realize that the World Race is just the first year in a three year discipleship process based on Jesus’ model. In fact, if it could be summarized in one word, that word might be “deconstruction.” The Race challenges so many of our preconceptions. It’s a challenging process that most racers struggle to complete. My guess is that maybe 10% of racers finish it.”
So here I am – almost halfway through year two of de-and-re-construction, committed to being one of the 10 percent to ensure that my desires and will for my life are conformed to God’s. I would not have made it without many moments, challenges, and words from my coaches and squad mates.
This blog, is a tribute to those scriptures, words, and conversations that continue to shape me into the man God’s calling me to be.
Luke
Photo by Erin Waggoner
Deuteronomy 29:29 (NIV)
“The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law.”
Luke let’s the secret things belong to the Lord. He is one of the most comfortable gents I know with “mystery.” It’s a blessing to be reminded by him to “let it go.” When over thinking gets in the way, Luke knows where the off switch is to get me off my intelectual merry-go-round.
Erin
“I Wanna Talk About Me” was the song that Erin gave me one day. She said, “Don’t be afraid to prioritize your relationship with God above your relationship with other people.” It was the best advice and permission I’d ever received and one I learned at new depths in Harvest School.
Bethany
I was in quite a mood recently during my visit to Texas and Bethany said, “Just because I’m used to it, doesn’t make it right” (it being the moodiness; if you know me, you know what she’s talking about haha). It was a serious heart-check and call to greater self-discipline. I’m grateful that Bethany always has the courage to tell it like it is and that she co-led the last half of the race with me.
Jordan
A year ago, Jordan told me to read and study the book of Hebrews. At the time, I didn’t understand much. Now, it has been one of the most important books to me because of it’s revelation of the cross, faith, sacrifice, priesthood, and the Jewishness of Jesus. Jordan was one of my best buds on the race. I love him and his friendship.
Lukas
Lukas once said, “No one has a monopoly on pain.” This sounds harsh, but it is reminds me as a Christians that we must take responsibility for pain and grow from it, leaving victimhood and entitlement behind. Jesus never played the victim or blamed others for the pain He endured. Instead, he paid the price to love and reconcile the world to himself – even when it meant being betrayed by those who were suppose to be there for him. I watched Lukas do the same this past year, choosing to be better instead of bitter and it greatly encouraged me. He’s a handsome rogue that never doubts my heart and always has my back. He’s a best friend and I greatly appreciate his depth, his humor, and his brilliant mind.
Emily
Emily wrote me a note before our joint squad debrief with the following verse:
“For he knows our frame;
he remembers that we are dust.”
This verse became an inheritance verse, reminding me that one day I will return to the dust. Her letter to me initiated a very powerful encounter with Father God for me last year. I’m grateful she gave me this verse.
Gary Black
Gary was my coach on the field and my third month he offended my ego (I know, imagine that! Haha).
“Charles,” he said, “You’re a Pharisee, brother.”
I was upset, but he was right. He told me to read Father Heart of God by Flord McClung, Jr. which began freeing me from performance and validation. Because of his coaching, I’ve learned to appreciate offense in my journey because it’s a sign that something needs to be taken to the cross of Christ to die – me. Again. And again. And again. I so admire Gary and Lisa! In adversity and success, they continually say “Yes!” to God, and I aspire to do the same.
Chelsea
She is an absolute, best friend. She is a safe place. She has encouraged me so many times and was my battle buddy through my World Race. I think (key word) the most encouraging thing she has said is, “You’re a meek man.” I often think I’m too intense, yet Chelsea spoke meekness over me – professing how God sees me. Every conversation with her is an blessing that keeps me looking forward to the next one.
John-Morgan
John-Morgan and I finally got to be on a team together in Thailand where we got to share about our journeys. In Indonesia, he came to me and told me, “Your advice was the one that made a difference.” He affirmed me and continued to seek the kingdom, even when others had doubts and our squad lost five people three months earlier. He has much wisdom for his age and I’m grateful every chance we have to catch up. Love you, brother and hope to see you soon!
Roxanna
Roxanna and I had many conversations, but I most appreciated her willingness to ask questions, listen, and talk about trust.
I learned how trust is built – it takes time, give and take. Roxanna was upfront about her level of trust with me and it was a great example for me as I learned to establish boundaries in my own life. There was a lot push and pull but I’m grateful for you, your kindness, and your wisdom, Rox.
Joshua
If I need to laugh, share deeply from my heart, discuss theology, then finish it all with impressions and absurd humor, Josh is my go to.
In Thailand Josh said, to me, “Charles, you do realize that anything we say about God is a theological statement?”
Dumbfounded, I realized then and there that I love theology and that 33% of our discussions were about theology. Josh has keen insights and aligns truths in a way that brings simplicity and harmony to the forefront. I greatly appreciate his friendship and am excited to see God uses him the next decade.
Cory
There wasn’t so much something Cory said as something he did. Cory watched out for me and cared for me, often telling me to go take a nap then taking care of things while I slept. Now that’s a good friend! Whether it was cooking together or simply watching a movie, Cory always made others feel accepted and understood. His ability to love others was inspiring and challenged me to use my intuition less and restrain judgment in order to see others how God sees them.
Amy
Last but not least! If I learned one lesson from Amy it’s this – don’t expect what you don’t ask for. Ask. Nicely of course! But ask. People, especially men, are not mind readers. Amy lives life from a place of “permission granted” and that’s a loads of fun and a pleasure to be around. Grateful for your friendship “doll!”
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Well, that’s all I got for now. Thank you again to all those who supported me, followed my progress, and commented on thoughts and travel photos! Hoping to transition to a separate site soon.
****Disclaimer: To those who were not mentioned****
If I did not mention you, it’s not because you haven’t influenced me:) there simply wasn’t “one key thing” I could remember when I wrote this. Relax. I still like you and enjoyed my time with you.
